1. Simon Denny: Secret Power
Exploring surveillance, Simon Denny's Secret Power reinterprets documents from the National Security Agency leaked by Edward Snowden. Walking through the installation, which was originally exhibited at the Venice Biennale in 2015, is like being inside a giant computer. The exhibition also includes the first 3D printed pieces that Te Papa has acquired – in the form of mini Apple computers and Nokia cellphones.
— Te Papa, 55 Cable St, until February 26. Visit tepapa.govt.nz
2. Cindy Sherman
The New York-based artist explores the state of the world through the creation of characters - in the form of meticulous self-portraits. Take a trip through some of her most prolific series in the self-titled show at City Gallery Wellington. We spoke with Sherman on the eve of the exhibition's opening.
— City Gallery Wellington, Civic Square, until March 19. Visit citygallery.org.nz
3. Caughley
Offering attentive service from the minute you step in the door, Caughley is a tightly edited boutique sure to help you fill those wardrobe gaps – whether it's a luxurious T-shirt from Organic by John Patrick or a slinky dress from Harman Grubisa.
— 57 Ghuznee St. Visit caughley.nz
4. Five & Dime
Inconspicuous from the roadside, Five & Dime offers a slick dining experience that makes you want to slow down, complete with a roof painted like the sky. The diverse menu features interpretations of food from across the globe, including some great Lebanese options. Who can go past sweet and sticky baklava topped with rosewater candy floss? Now open for brunch on the weekends too, from 10am to 3pm.
— 234 Cuba St. Visit fiveanddimenz.com
5. Ena
With windows for walls and an industrial concrete floor, Ena is a concept store that provides shopping zen. There's an ever-evolving edit of fresh brands, both local and international – including Shjark, Now or Never, Natali Peri jewellery and Georgia Jay bags.
— 30 Ghuznee St. Visit iamena.co.nz
6. Deadly Ponies
Entering Deadly Ponies' Wellington store is like stepping into a kaleidoscope - albeit one filled with the brand's buttery leather bags. Designed by Katie Lockhart, the fit-out consists of pastel renditions of Brancusi sculptures that make shopping for a trusty handbag all the more fun.
— 28 Ghuznee St. Visit deadlyponies.com
7. Precinct 35
Rounding out the great new cluster of boutiques on Ghuznee St is homewares specialist Precinct 35, so precisely arranged that you can't help but feel a sense of calm. The focus is on pieces from small creative makers, such as vessels by ceramicist Felicity Donaldson of Wundaire and cosy cotton jersey bedding from New Zealand linen brand Dehei.
— 35 Ghuznee St. Visit shop.precinctonline.co.nz
